Dean Cothill

Tag: creative volunteers in church

  • What does it mean to be a “creative”

    What does it mean to be a “creative”

    In today’s society, it seems as though everyone wants to be seen as creative. We often hear people talk about their “creative” ideas, or see companies marketing themselves as “innovative” and “groundbreaking.” But what does it really mean to be a creator or to tap into the spirit of Creativity? While some may view creativity as a purely human trait, many spiritual traditions believe that the act of creation is infused with a Divine breathe or spirit. In this blog post, we will explore the idea of creation and the role of spirit in it. We will delve into what it means to be a creator and how we can tap into our own creativity by connecting with the Spirit that infuses all things.

    Which verses point to Creation and Creativity?

    There are several connections between Genesis 1 and the work of the Spirit, as well as Exodus 31 and Bezalel’s creative work.

    1. The Spirit’s role in creation: In Genesis 1:2, the Spirit of God is described as hovering over the waters, indicating His active involvement in the creation process. Similarly, in Exodus 31:3, Bezalel is described as being filled with the Spirit of God, giving him the wisdom, understanding, and knowledge needed to create the tabernacle and its furnishings.
    2. The importance of creativity and craftsmanship: In Genesis 1, God creates the world with great care and attention to detail, showcasing His creativity and craftsmanship. Similarly, in Exodus 31, Bezalel is described as having “skill, ability, and knowledge in all kinds of crafts” (Exodus 31:3), enabling him to create beautiful and intricate works of art.
    3. The value of work: In Genesis 1, God works for six days to create the world, and then rests on the seventh day, setting an example for humanity to follow. Similarly, in Exodus 31, Bezalel is given the task of creating the tabernacle and its furnishings, emphasizing the importance of work and the value of using one’s skills and abilities for a worthy purpose.
    4. The connection between the Spirit and creativity: In both Genesis 1 and Exodus 31, the Spirit of God is closely linked with creativity and the ability to do great work. The Spirit is portrayed as the source of wisdom, understanding, and knowledge, enabling individuals to use their creative abilities to their fullest potential.

    Overall, the connections between Genesis 1 and the work of the Spirit, as well as Exodus 31 and Bezalel’s creative work, emphasize the importance of creativity, craftsmanship, and work, as well as the role of the Spirit in empowering individuals to use their gifts and talents for a greater purpose.

    What is God’s involvement in my creativity?

    The Hebrew words “Ruach Elohim” literally mean “Spirit of God” or “Wind of God,” with “Ruach” meaning “spirit” or “wind,” and “Elohim” being one of the names of God in the Hebrew Bible.

    In the context of Genesis 1, the phrase “Ruach Elohim” is used to describe the Spirit of God’s active involvement in the creation of the world. It is said that the Spirit of God was “hovering over the waters” (Genesis 1:2) before God spoke creation into existence. This suggests that the Spirit of God played a role in the creation process, bringing order and life to the formless and void earth.

    In the context of Exodus 31, the Spirit of God is said to have filled Bezalel, a skilled artisan chosen to construct the tabernacle and its furnishings. This filling of the Spirit is said to have given Bezalel wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and skill in all kinds of crafts (Exodus 31:3), enabling him to create beautiful and intricate works of art that would honor God.

    In both contexts, the phrase “Ruach Elohim” highlights the active involvement of the Spirit of God in bringing about God’s creative and redemptive purposes in the world.

    Created to create in God’s Image

    In the context of Genesis 1:26, being created in God’s image means that humans were created to reflect God’s character and nature in the world. The phrase “God created man in his own image” (Genesis 1:27) emphasizes that humans have a unique relationship with God, different from the rest of creation.

    Being created in God’s image means that humans have a special dignity and worth that comes from being made in the image of the Creator. This dignity and worth applies to all humans, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, or social status. It also means that humans have a unique responsibility to represent God’s character and nature in the world, reflecting His love, justice, mercy, and compassion to others.

    Furthermore, being created in God’s image means that humans have been given the capacity for relationship with God and with one another. Humans have been created with the ability to know and love God, to communicate with Him, and to have a personal relationship with Him. Similarly, humans have the ability to form deep and meaningful relationships with one another, reflecting God’s nature as a relational being.

    So being created in God’s image is a significant and foundational aspect of human identity and purpose, emphasizing the unique dignity, worth, and responsibility that humans have been given as reflections of God in the world.

    As humans created in the image of God, we have been given the capacity and ability to create in a variety of ways. In Genesis 1, God is portrayed as a creator who brought the universe into existence through His spoken word, and who fashioned the world with care and attention to detail. As image-bearers of God, we have been created to create in a similar way.

    Creativity is a fundamental aspect of human nature, and it takes many different forms. Some people create through art, music, or literature, while others create through science, technology, or engineering. Still, others create through entrepreneurship, leadership, or social innovation. Whatever form creativity takes, it is an expression of our God-given ability to bring order and beauty into the world, to solve problems, and to make things better.

    Furthermore, our capacity for creativity is not limited to the work we do or the things we create. We have also been created to create in the sense of procreation, of bringing new life into the world and nurturing and guiding it toward maturity.

    You see, our ability to create is a reflection of God’s creative nature, and it is an essential part of our identity and purpose as human beings. As we engage in creative work and bring new things into existence, we participate in God’s ongoing work of bringing order, beauty, and purpose to the world.

  • Story is King: Your local Story is Sacred

    Story is King: Your local Story is Sacred

    In today’s fast-paced, highly competitive business world, it’s more important than ever for brands and churches to stand out and tell their unique story. Why? Because consumers are tired of being bombarded with generic, formulaic messaging that doesn’t speak to them on a personal level. They want to connect with brands that have a real, authentic message to share.

    Content is king?

    As Gary Vee likes to say, “Content is king, but context is god.” What this means is that in order for a brand’s message to truly resonate with consumers, it needs to be communicated in the right way and in the right context. Telling a unique story is one of the most effective ways to do this. We know this, we have all been doing this for 1000’s of years, and today, we still do this, standing around fires at our homes whether BBQ’s or braai’s or even just in our kitchens (How many deep and meaning conversations have you had in your kitchen? Right? LOADS!)

    Think about it: people are naturally drawn to stories. They want to know the behind-the-scenes details of how a brand came to be, what inspired it, and what sets it apart from the competition. A brand’s story is the perfect way to give consumers that deeper level of understanding and connection.

    Authentic Story Telling Matters

    But it’s not just about telling a story for the sake of telling a story. A brand’s story needs to be authentic, it needs to be true, it needs to be unique and it needs to be relevant to the consumer. A brand that has a unique story to tell is one that has a clear sense of purpose and identity. It knows why it exists, and it can communicate that to consumers in a way that resonates with them on a personal level.

    When a brand tells its unique story, it creates a sense of trust and loyalty with consumers. They feel like they know the brand and understand its values. This is crucial in today’s world where consumers are faced with a plethora of options and are often overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices available to them. A unique story helps a brand stand out and be remembered in a sea of sameness.

    Story creates community (Shared experiences)

    Another important aspect of telling a unique story is that it helps a brand to create a sense of community. When consumers feel like they are part of a brand’s story, they feel like they are part of something bigger than themselves. They feel like they are part of a movement, a tribe, a community of like-minded individuals. This sense of belonging is incredibly powerful and can create a deep sense of loyalty among consumers.

    Moreover, a brand’s unique story can also serve as a powerful marketing tool. It gives the brand a way to differentiate itself from the competition and communicate its unique value proposition in a way that resonates with consumers. A unique story can be used to create compelling content, such as videos, blog posts, social media updates, and more, that can be shared across multiple platforms to reach a wider audience.

    However, telling a unique story is not a one-time thing. It’s an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and commitment. Brands need to be willing to be transparent, authentic, and vulnerable. They need to be willing to share their struggles as well as their successes. They need to be willing to constantly evolve and adapt their story as their brand and the market changes. We all have that uncle that comes over every Christmas and tells us all the SAME STORY OVER and OVER and OVER. No one stops him, partly cause we don’t want to hurt his feelings but mainly cause we actually love hearing again. We love it when people tell us the stories that REALLY MATTER TO THEM.

    In conclusion, telling a unique story is essential for brands, communities and churches to stand out in today’s crowded marketplace. It helps to create a deeper level of understanding and connection with consumers, build trust and loyalty, create a sense of community and serve as a powerful marketing tool. However, it’s not just about telling the story, it’s about telling it authentically, consistently, and being willing to evolve it as necessary. As Gary Vee says, “The most important thing in business is to be true to who you are, and be transparent about it.”

    Grace and peace

    D

  • Creativity and using your imagination (Part 2)

    Creativity and using your imagination (Part 2)

    When it comes to tapping into your creative-ness and imagination, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you must have the ability to recognize the stories that you are currently telling about your life. These stories may be based on past experiences or beliefs, and they can shape the way that you see the world and yourself.

    However, recognizing these stories is only the first step. In order to truly tap into your creativity and imagination, you must also be willing to change the story. This means that you have the power to decide how compelling, realistic, or magnificent your story becomes.

    It’s important to keep in mind that as you change the story, it’s crucial to ensure that the story still makes sense to you in some way. This will prevent you from getting lost in cognitive dissonance and feeling confused or disoriented. To achieve this, it’s best to adjust the plot step by step, once you identify a new direction. This will help you to ease into the new story and make the transition more comfortable and manageable.

    Telling a compelling story about your life is a powerful tool for unlocking your creativity and imagination. By recognizing the stories you currently tell about yourself and being willing to change them, you can shape your reality and create a story that is both meaningful and inspiring. Remember, the power to change the story is in your hands and you can make it as grand and magnificent as you desire.

    In conclusion, when it comes to tapping into your creative and imaginative abilities, it’s essential to be aware of the stories you’re currently telling about your life, be willing to change them, and adjust them step by step to ensure that the new story still makes sense to you. This will allow you to create a compelling, realistic, and magnificent story that will inspire and empower you.

  • 109 FREE copy and paste social media posts

    109 FREE copy and paste social media posts

    We all know the feeling, a new week, a new agenda, and we all know you can only say SUNDAY FUNDAY so many times before there is just no more fun left. How about 101 free social media copy and paste ideas to help spice up for social media content?

    Social media for churches

    Text Posts with Inspiration

    Use these posts to promote the gospel and enliven the social timelines of your followers. And lets start with one that we have all come to know and love.

    • God does not call the equipped, he equips the called. You are called by God.

    Now immediately I know what you’re thinking. When it comes to social media and the story that we are telling on our channels, this is where it can get really cliche and cheesy. So there is definitely more than one way of saying this. Here’s 10 more ways of saying the same thing…

    1. Just because others may have a certain perception of you, doesn’t mean that’s who you truly are. Remember, it’s what God says that matters.
    2. Don’t let anyone else define who you are – only God knows the real you. And don’t let your past hold you back from opportunities.
    3. Don’t let anyone else’s words or actions define you. You are who God says you are and that is all that matters. And don’t let your history stop you from pursuing what you want.
    4. People may try to label you, but you are not defined by them. Only God truly knows who you are. And remember, your past experiences have prepared you for the present.
    5. Don’t let other people’s opinions of you become your reality. You are who God says you are, and that is all that matters. And your past does not determine your future.
    6. Others may try to put you in a box, but don’t let them limit you. Remember, you are who God says you are. And your history has made you ready for what’s to come.
    7. Don’t let others define you. You are who God says you are and that is all that matters. And your past experiences have prepared you for the present.
    8. Just because someone else says who you are, doesn’t mean it’s true. You are who God says you are, and that’s all that matters. And don’t let your past hold you back from applying.
    9. Don’t let anyone else tell you who you are. You are who God says you are, and that is all that matters. And don’t let your past experiences hold you back from applying.
    10. Others may have an idea of who you are, but you are not defined by their perception. You are who God says you are, and that is all that matters. And don’t let your past experiences hold you back from applying.

    So you see, part of this list is actually more about inspiring you to get writing and rewriting various “cliches” that are often found in church circles and rewriting them for our channels. (more on this later, let’s carry on with that list)

    • You’ll come to see that Christ is all you need when Christ is all you have.
      Don’t go backward. Look ahead. The very best is still to come. Everything we require will be provided by our dependable God.
    • On the mountaintops we may enjoy God, but in the lowlands we discover Him.
    • Jesus is the one from whom we can learn to love all people. He led the way for us. When you are reliant on God, you are never stronger.
    • Everything we require will be provided by our dependable God.
    • On the mountaintops, we may enjoy God, but it is in the lowlands that we discover Him.
    • Jesus is the one from whom we can learn to love all people. He led the way for us.
    • When you are reliant on God, you are never stronger.
    • Remember: worrying is ineffective. rather, turn to God.
    • Keep on worshiping, praising, and praying no matter what.
    • You can overcome any circumstance by relying on Jesus.
    • Where there is no way, God can make a way. Give Him anything you are dealing with.
    • God will bless the rest if you give Him your best.
    • Happy always. Continually pray. Give thanks in every situation.
    • At first, every miracle looks improbable. Believe for the best!
    • Consider difficult situations through the lens of faith. Have faith in a better day ahead.
    • Do not contrast your Chapter 1 with another person’s Chapter 20.
    • Don’t let your issues control you. Follow the promises of God.
    • God is able to change any circumstance. Continue to pray. Keep your faith. Keep your faith.
    • Stop. Breathe in deeply. God will make a solution.
    • You have come too far under God’s guidance to quit up now. Carry on.
    • Have you worried about it and prayed about it equally? God is willing to hear.
    • Both the major and minor matters can be trusted to God. All are important to him.
    • When everyone assumes a tale is finished, Jesus intervenes and transforms everything.
    • An extended week? Hold on to hope! Every step of the road, God is there with you.
    • Encourage others! Kind words are free and can mean the world to others.
    • There is still hope for your life as long as you can still breathe.
    • Nothing is so damaged that God cannot create something from it.
    • Keep in mind that whatever issue you are dealing with, God has a greater plan for you.
    • In every circumstance, let your hope in Jesus serve as your anchor.
    • You can have faith in God’s purpose without having to comprehend it.
    • The difference between what we can accomplish and what God can accomplish is prayer.
    • Share Jesus with others! Discuss Him and the impact He has had on your life.

    Interactive Text Posts

    Try these posts to spark engagement and friendly conversation on your church’s social pages.

    • Tell us your testimony in one sentence.
    • Share a praise report in the comments!
    • Fill in the blank: Dear Jesus, _
    • Tell us about a time that God showed up in your life in a big way.
    • Describe our church in one word!
    • Tell us a Bible story using only emojis.
    • What is your favorite worship song right now?
    • What’s your favorite Bible verse right now?
    • What was your favorite part of this week’s message?
    • How can we pray for you today?
    • How old were you when you found Jesus?
    • What is your favorite way to serve at church?
    • What is your favorite book of the Bible?
    • Name an old worship song that you still love.
    • What’s your favorite place to get lunch after church on Sundays?
    • Who has been a hero in your life?
    • What’s the best donut shop in town?
    • List 3 things that you’re thankful for today in the comments.
    • Let’s play a game. Quote a lyric in the comments and let others guess the song.
    • Drop a photo in the comments that you’ve taken at our church.
    • Emoji responses only: How’s your week going?
    • Which person in the Bible do you relate to most?
    • What’s your favorite video game of all time?
    • What was your favorite subject in school?
    • Tell us all of your favorite sports teams in the comments.
    • What’s one piece of advice you’d give to your younger self?
    • Which emojis do you use most?
    • What’s your go-to flavor of ice cream?
    • Tag the best cook that you know.
    • What’s your go-to morning drink?
    • What is one food that you could eat forever?
    • Who is the best superhero?
    • Tag a friend who can always cheer you up!

    Invitation Text Posts

    Social media hacks for church

    Try these posts to remind people of your upcoming services and encourage them to bring a friend.

    • Today is a wonderful day to celebrate Jesus! I’ll see you in church!
    • To express your excitement for church this Sunday, use a GIF.
    • Ever wanted a reset button for life? Attending church could give you the fresh start you need.
    • Every Saturday is essentially “Sunday Eve” when you attend a church that you love.
    • Someone’s life could change with only one invitation to church. Who are you bringing?
    • How did you learn about our church at first?
    • I’ll see you on Sunday at church.
    • Just for you, we have a spot reserved. I’ll see you on Sunday at church.
    • Nearly time for church! Hope to see you there.
    • Trying to find a church? This Sunday, we’d love to see you.
    • Sunday will soon be here! We are eager to meet you.
    • Every Sunday, we offer engaging Bible activities for children. Your children will adore it.
    • This week, don’t forget to invite a friend!
    • Today is the big day! Until then, bye.
    • You’re looking for a new beginning for your family. Come to worship with us on Sunday.
    • Wednesday is our day for church. See you tomorrow!
    • Do you know someone who is struggling? Invite them to join you at church.
    • Feel as though your life is lacking something? Sunday, try attending church.
    • Join us in worship this weekend!
    • To attend church, you don’t have to have everything worked out.
    • If you’re prepared for church, raise your hand!
    • This is your invitation to church if you are reading this.
    • Hot coffee is served. The band is practicing. We are ready to meet you!
    • Church is the perfect place for imperfect people.
    • Without you, Sunday won’t be the same.
    • Here, a Sunday is never simply another Sunday. Avoid skipping a service!
    • A successful Sunday sets the tone for a fantastic week. We’ll talk soon.
    • Church is not just a building. a family unit!
    • Invite a pal. Or two. Or ten!
    • Looking for a church that you can call your own? We can assist.
    • Create a new routine. Come to worship with us on Sunday.

    Again, if all of the content on your church’s social media pages is text posts, it will quickly become monotonous. Combining these text posts with other postings that include graphics and text from free APPS like Studio (Previously knows as OVER), photographs from Sunday’s or even free images from sites like UNSPLASH, and videos makes everything much more effective.

    I hope this helps and I hope that we can stay in touch

    Chat soon

    D

  • Creativity and using your imagination

    Creativity and using your imagination

    Creativity, for me, simply, is making something out of nothing. Once there was just nothing, then a thought came along, then a melody came, then words on a paper, then sentences. I believe that we have been created to create, made in the image of our creator, we are creators.

    When it comes to creativity and imagination, worldbuilding is all about tapping into the endless possibilities of your own mind. You see, when you have a desire or dream, you’re presented with a choice. You can either choose to take the creative route and work on expanding your imagination, or you can take the default reality route and just stuff that dream back down inside of you. The first option is exciting because it allows you to bring your dream to life, but the second option can lead to internal chaos and a lack of congruence between your inner and outer worlds. It’s important to remember that our imagination is a powerful tool that we can use to create the life we want, but it takes work and commitment to develop it.

    What does it mean to take the road less traveled

    The first option I mentioned is taking the “creative route” or “the road less travelled” and working on expanding your imagination. This means actively using your imagination to bring your dream or desire to life. It could involve brainstorming different ideas, visualizing different scenarios, or even experimenting with different ways to achieve your goal.

    Road less travelled

    The phrase “the road less traveled” is often used to describe a path or choice that is not commonly chosen by others, and this is where it gets tricky, there is often a reason this road is less travelled, there a fewer travellers on this road and fewer people have made maps of this road. I think the analogies here are endless. In the context of the creative process of an artist, it can refer to taking a unique or unconventional approach to their work. It means to break free from the common or typical ways of creating and to explore new and uncharted territories.

    An artist who takes the road less traveled may choose to work with unusual materials, explore new styles or techniques, or create work that challenges the status quo. It could also mean to not following the trends or being influenced by what is currently popular, instead choosing to create work that is true to their own vision and style.

    Choosing the road less traveled can be a risky and challenging path, but it can also lead to more rewarding and meaningful work. It allows an artist to stand out from the crowd and to create something that is truly original and authentic.

    It’s important to note that “the road less travelled” is not always about being completely different but rather about having a unique perspective, and taking a different approach, which may be a combination of different elements. It’s about not being afraid to experiment and to push the boundaries of what is considered “normal” or “acceptable” in the art world.

    One way to expand your imagination is by exposing yourself to new experiences, art, and cultures. This can help you think outside of your usual ways of thinking and come up with new and creative ideas.

    Another way is to practice brainstorming and mind-mapping techniques, which can help you generate a wide range of ideas and possibilities. These techniques are designed to help you think more freely and come up with new and unique solutions to problems.

    You can also engage in activities that require imagination like writing, drawing, painting, sculpting, and building models. These activities can help you develop your creative skills and give you a greater sense of control over your imagination.

    Ultimately, taking the creative route requires dedication and willingness to take risks. It’s about being open to new possibilities and not being afraid to think outside of the box. But remember, it’s not just about having a good idea, it’s about taking the idea and turning it into something real.

    What’s the other option?

    The second option I mentioned is taking the “default reality route” and just stuffing your dream or desire back down inside of you. This means not actively working on bringing your dream to life, and instead settling for the status quo.

    When you take the default reality route, you may find yourself feeling unfulfilled and uninspired. Your dream or desire may continue to linger in the back of your mind, causing internal chaos and a lack of congruence between your inner and outer worlds.

    You may feel like you’re stuck in a rut, and that you don’t have the time, resources, or ability to make your dream a reality. You may also feel like you’re not good enough, or that your dream is too unrealistic. So, you may choose to push your dream or desire to the back of your mind and just focus on the daily tasks and responsibilities.

    Additionally, taking the default reality route may also mean that you’re not taking any steps to improve your current situation, you’re just accepting things as they are. This can lead to a lack of motivation and a sense of stagnation in your life.

    It’s important to remember that when we settle for the default reality, we are missing the opportunity to create something new and unique, and to bring our desires and dreams to life. It’s important to be mindful of our thoughts and feelings, and to make a conscious effort to work on our dreams and desires, even if it means going against the norm and taking risks.

    Where to from here…

    In conclusion, creativity and imagination are powerful tools that we can use to create the life we want. By using our imagination and taking the creative route, we can bring our desires and dreams to life and live a more fulfilling and authentic life. We are created to create, and when we tap into our imagination, we can create things that are truly original and authentic. However, it’s important to remember that taking the creative route requires dedication, willingness to take risks and to develop our imagination. We must be open to new possibilities and not be afraid to think outside of the box. Embracing our creativity and imagination is not just about having good ideas, it’s about taking the ideas and turning them into reality. It’s about following the road less traveled and creating something unique and meaningful. Let’s not be afraid to use our imagination, and to create as we have been created to create.

  • How to market your local churches Sunday gatherings and other events.

    How to market your local churches Sunday gatherings and other events.

    Are you looking for ways to effectively promote your church’s events and increase attendance? Look no further! In this blog post, we will be sharing 7 key ideas for marketing your church’s events and reaching a wider audience. From utilizing social media platforms to leveraging the power of SEO, these ideas will help you effectively promote your church’s events and build a sense of community among your congregation. Whether you’re planning a special service, a fundraising event, or a community outreach program, these ideas will help you get the word out and attract more attendees. So, let’s dive in and explore how you can effectively market your church’s events and make a meaningful impact on your community.

    Church Service

    1. Utilize social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to promote upcoming church events by creating engaging and visually appealing posts, including details about the event, location, and time.

    I would say that utilizing social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter is an essential aspect of promoting upcoming church events. By creating engaging and visually appealing posts, including details about the event, location, and time, we can effectively reach out to our congregation as well as the wider community. Social media allows us to connect with people on a personal level and build a sense of community, which is crucial in getting people excited about attending our events.

    You should also make sure to include a call to action in our posts, such as “RSVP now” or “register today” to make it easy for people to take action and attend the event. Additionally, we should consider using paid social media advertising to reach a wider audience, particularly targeting those who live in the local area. See more here on “targeting specific audiences”.

    In short, social media is a powerful tool for promoting church events and building a sense of community among our congregation. By utilizing it effectively, we can increase attendance and make a meaningful impact on our community.

    2. Leverage the power of Instagram and Facebook stories to share behind-the-scenes content, testimonials from attendees, and live updates from the event.

    I would emphasize that leveraging the power of Instagram and Facebook stories is an excellent way to share behind-the-scenes content, testimonials from attendees, and live updates from the events we host at our church. These platforms allow us to create a sense of excitement and anticipation among our congregation, which in turn can help to increase attendance.

    For example, we can share photos and videos of the preparations for an event, such as setting up the stage or decorating the venue. This will give our congregation a sneak peek into what they can expect and get them excited about attending.

    Additionally, by sharing testimonials from attendees, we can showcase the impact our events have on the lives of our congregation, which can be a powerful motivator for others to attend. Live updates from the event can keep people engaged and connected, even if they are unable to attend.

    In summary, Instagram and Facebook stories are an effective way to create a sense of excitement and engagement around our church events and help to increase attendance. By sharing behind-the-scenes content, testimonials, and live updates, we can create a sense of community and connection among our congregation.

    3. Create a YouTube channel for your church and post videos of sermons, teachings, and events to reach a wider audience and improve your SEO.

    I would stress that creating a YouTube channel for our church and posting videos of sermons, teachings, and events is an excellent way to reach a wider audience and improve our SEO. By having a YouTube channel, we can share the message of our church and the teachings of our faith with a global audience, which can help to attract new members to our congregation.

    YouTube Logo

    Additionally, by optimizing our YouTube videos with relevant keywords and captions, we can improve our SEO and make it easier for people to find us online. This can be especially useful for attracting new members who are searching for a church in our local area.

    Moreover, by posting videos of our events, we can give those who were unable to attend a sense of what they missed and keep them engaged and connected to our community.

    In summary, creating a YouTube channel and posting videos of sermons, teachings, and events can help us reach a wider audience and improve our SEO, which can help to attract new members to our congregation. Additionally, by sharing videos of our events, we can keep our congregation engaged and connected, even if they are unable to attend in person.

    4. Optimize your church’s website for local SEO by including location-specific keywords, creating a Google My Business listing, and encouraging attendees to leave reviews on your listing.

    I would express the importance of optimizing our church’s website for local SEO. This includes including location-specific keywords, creating a Google My Business listing and encouraging attendees to leave reviews on our listing. By doing so, we can ensure that our website appears at the top of search results when people in our local area search for a church. This can be especially useful for attracting new members who are searching for a church in our area.

    Creating a Google My Business listing allows us to provide important information about our church such as our address, phone number, and hours of operation. Additionally, by encouraging our attendees to leave reviews on our listing, we can showcase the positive impact our church has on the lives of our congregation. This can be a powerful motivator for others to visit our church and join our community.

    In short, by optimizing our church’s website for local SEO, we can improve our visibility online and make it easier for people in our local area to find us. This can help to attract new members to our congregation and showcase the positive impact our church has on the community.

    5. Partner with local influencers, bloggers, or media outlets to help promote your church events and reach a “new” audience.

    As I even begin to think about this topic I begin to cringe a little bit and actually struggle to connect the dots between influencers and The Church. But even as I type this I think about the woman at the well, was she an influencer of sorts? So as “Dean Cothill” and that weird world of social media influencers and the likes, I would stress the importance of partnering with local influencers, bloggers, or media outlets to help promote our church events and reach a new audience. By doing so, we can tap into their existing networks and reach a wider audience than we could on our own.

    Social media influencers at an event

    For example, partnering with local influencers can help us reach a younger demographic and showcase the relevance of our church in today’s society. Working with bloggers or media outlets can provide us with valuable coverage and exposure for our events, which can help to attract new members to our congregation.

    Additionally, by partnering with these individuals and organizations, we can gain valuable insights into the needs and interests of our community and tailor our events and services to better meet their needs.

    So by partnering with local influencers, bloggers, or media outlets can be a powerful tool in promoting our church events and reaching a new audience. By tapping into their existing networks and gaining valuable insights, we can attract new members to our congregation and better serve the needs of our community.

    6. Use email marketing to keep your congregation informed about upcoming events and remind them of the details.

    Email marketing has almost slipped under the radar with the rise of social media and us just trying to keep our Facebook and socials up to date, but email is still so key to keep our congregation informed about upcoming events and remind them of the details. Email is a powerful tool for reaching our congregation directly, and we can use it to keep them informed about important dates, events and other church-related information.

    For example, we can send out email reminders about upcoming events, including details about the location, time, and what attendees can expect. This can help to increase attendance and ensure that everyone is informed about what’s happening at our church.

    Email marketing for churches

    Additionally, we can use email marketing to share updates on the progress of our events, such as fundraising efforts, and ask for support. We can also use it to share post-event reports and highlight the impact of the event on our community.

    7. Create a hashtag for your church events and encourage attendees to share photos and posts using it on social media.

    Lastly, hashtags are a powerful tool for creating a sense of community and engagement around our events. By using a specific hashtag, we can easily track and curate all of the social media posts related to our event in one place.

    For example, we can create a unique hashtag for each event and encourage attendees to use it when posting about the event on social media. This can help to create a sense of community and engagement among our congregation, and also allow us to easily track and curate all of the social media posts related to our event.

    Additionally, by encouraging attendees to share their photos and posts on social media, we can create a sense of excitement and anticipation for our events, which can help to increase attendance.

    In summary, creating a hashtag for our church events and encouraging attendees to share photos and posts using it on social media is a powerful tool for creating a sense of community and engagement around our events. It allows us to track and curate all of the social media posts related to our event and increase attendance.

    Having a specific hashtag for a brand or community is important for several reasons:

    1. Branding: Using a specific hashtag helps to establish and reinforce the brand’s identity. It makes it easy for people to recognize the brand and associate it with specific content.
    2. Community building: Hashtags allow people to easily find and join conversations about a brand or product. This can help to build a sense of community around the brand, which can lead to increased loyalty and advocacy.
    3. Content curation: Hashtags make it easy to curate and organize user-generated content. This can be used for marketing purposes, such as showcasing customer reviews, testimonials, and engagement.
    4. Analytics: By tracking the usage of a specific hashtag, brands can gather data on engagement, reach and the demographics of users who are engaging with the brand.
    5. Discoverability: Hashtags increase the discoverability of a brand or product on social media. Hashtags make it easy for people to find and join conversations about a brand or product, which can increase the brand’s visibility and reach.

    In summary, a specific hashtag is important for any brand as it helps in building recognition, community, curating content, tracking analytics and improving discoverability.

    Hashtag coffee cup for church.

    Last bonus tip, we all love coffee and have worked hard to offer great coffee to our volunteers and church guests. Put your next big event on your take away cups, can be as easy as using a stamp.

    In conclusion, effectively promoting your church’s events is crucial in building a sense of community and increasing attendance. By utilizing social media platforms, leveraging the power of SEO, and partnering with local influencers, you can effectively reach a wider audience and promote your church’s events. Additionally, by using email marketing, creating a mobile app, and encouraging the use of a specific hashtag, you can keep your congregation informed and engaged with your church’s events and activities.

    Implementing these 7 key ideas can help you to create a sense of excitement and anticipation for your church’s events, and increase attendance. Remember to stay consistent, always evaluate the results of your efforts and adapt accordingly. Don’t be afraid to try new strategies, and most importantly don’t be afraid to ask for help or feedback from members of your congregation. With the right approach and a little creativity, you can effectively market your church’s events and make a meaningful impact on your community.

  • Finding the illusive “creative” volunteer for your Church Teams

    Finding the illusive “creative” volunteer for your Church Teams

    No matter where you are or how big your congregation is, if you are a tech, production, or creative leader in the church, you are aware of how difficult it can be to get volunteers.

    Many of you are doing this work as volunteers and are already struggling to manage your obligations, let alone run a Sunday service. It can sometimes feel like you lack the time or resources to pursue finding and leading individuals.
    Similar to you, I have encountered same problems in the 12 years that I have served and managed a Creative Ministry, and when I say “creative” I think you know what I mean, although we will get into that a little later, I don’t just mean the guy who dresses a little “colorful”, the stand out artist or vibe enneagram 4 (LOL)

    What is a “Creative”?

    What is a Creative?

    A creative is someone who has a unique way of seeing the world. They have a great sense or intuition and often bring life to the party, always coming up with interesting stories and witty one-liners. They have a way of making even the dullest of situations feel charged with energy. They’re the type that people enjoy being around, they’re friendly and outgoing but also sensitive souls that tend to be very introspective.

    These types tend to be creative and artistic, they have a rich inner world, they’re often poets and artists who like to explore the deeper aspects of life. They tend to be emotional and often show a wide range of feelings and emotions, they can be funny and make you laugh but at the same time they can be the ones that make you cry at a comedy show. They have a unique perspective on life, they can add a special touch to any situation.

    In a nutshell, CREATIVES are multi-faceted, interesting and fun personalities with a touch of depth and depth and emotional intelligence. Big ideas and the vision for bigger things usually come easily, but you soon realize that you can never achieve them on your own. Actually, if you don’t have the necessary people in place, it could even be challenging to carry out regular weekly tasks.

    I have four suggestions for you to keep in mind if you’re ready to start being serious about expanding your creative team and creative volunteers. As you are undoubtedly aware, finding volunteers is not always simple, nevermind these “Bezelels“. With these suggestions, though, you can be successful and you could even wonder why you didn’t start earlier. Over the years, they have served me well, so I’m eager to see how well they will serve you and your community.

    1. Take A Genuine Interest In “these” types of people

    I am aware of how hectic your Sunday mornings might be, but if you want to grow your team, you will need to spend time socializing outside of your tech booth, or away from your Mac editing suite.

    So that your Sundays are spent more on developing relationships and less on work, get ready for the service earlier in the week. Of course, you could do this at other times during the week, but right now is your best chance. The circumstances are ideal—the audience is the correct one, the moment is right, and they are in the proper state of mind. Get out of your comfort zone and socialize. In the foyer, smile and say hello to them.

    Remember their name, and make sure to address them by it the next time you speak with them. You should make an effort to show people that you are genuinely interested in them (NOT JUST THEIR GIFTS). Encourage them to communicate about themselves by being a good listener. You can build a bridge for someone to join your team if you take the time to get to know them and truly demonstrate your importance to them.

    2. Invite Them To Something Great(er)

    Speaking for myself as a church technologist and creative, we frequently enjoy playing the martyr.

    “I work alone on all of this.”
    “I have to spend more time at the church than everyone else.”
    “I don’t remember the last time I had a Sunday off,” the person said.

    Anyone who could be interested in volunteering will be put off by this exact type of presentation. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of this ministry. After all, you do adore this stuff, don’t you? Talk about how much fun operating the equipment can be. Tell people how important it is to establish a worshipful environment. Tell us how you used what you learnt to accomplish something amazing. Tell people how cool the cameras are. Show people the light and sound panels and communicate how fun it is to be part of the experience. This sounds more like an organization that a recruit would want to join.

    Keep in mind that people will only naturally participate in something if it benefits them. You must thus invite them to an event that enhances their quality of life. Instead of inviting people to join you in your suffering, talk about this as a chance to accomplish something amazing. If you talk about how much you love participating in production or creative ministry to enough people, I’m ready to bet that others will approach you and beg to get involved.

    3. Take On The Role of Coach in the team

    Ever had an outstanding coach? What about a teacher who had a significant influence on your life? Years later, I can remember name the mentors who inspired me to improve or who assisted me in achieving a goal I never imagined I could. They are amazing to me since they had nothing to gain from my victory. Simply put, they found pleasure and joy in my success. As we seek out volunteers, this is the role that we must play. We must shift our attention away from the immediate task at hand and onto encouraging others to use their gifts for the glory of God.

    Make expressions of praise your default language as you engage others. Be quick to compliment them on their good qualities, no matter how minor. Applaud them for using their talents to honor their Creator and lead people to Christ. Remind them of the significance of what they are doing. Make it simple to win and challenging to lose. Even when they do fail, be encouraging and make the mistake appear simple to fix. You are much more likely to keep someone coming back if you encourage them to try serving with you and work with them in this manner.

    4. Do For One What You Can’t Do For All

    You might be thinking that everything seems impossible at this moment. This would undoubtedly take a long time to execute. There is no way that you can spend time doing this for everyone because you are already overworked. Truthfully, you’re correct. This is not something you can do for everyone all the time. But I’d advise you to set aside some time to do this for just one person. Give to one person what you would like to give to everyone. If you only have time to meet one person, start with them even if you may want to get to know everyone in your church lobby.

    It would be wiser to focus your efforts on one sincere conversation rather than spreading your enthusiasm for this mission to everyone. You could wish to enlist a group of ten new volunteers, but if you can’t effectively manage a small group, you’ll probably struggle to manage a larger one.

    It’s best to start small and give it your all while recruiting. Even if you can’t meet for coffee with ten people every day of the week, scheduling one afternoon conversation is a step forward. Even though you might not be able to commit to sending many motivating texts throughout the week, try adding one to your calendar. Even if you might not have enough time, you can undoubtedly teach one person how to use the church’s technology, cameras or lights. Try being deliberate in this season, one person at a time, wherever you are on your journey. You’ll soon be able to reflect on your life and realize how much of an impact you’ve had on many others.